Increasing understanding during themed week

Students at East Riding College are this week learning about different cultures and communities as part of its equality and diversity week.Activities and events, taking place at the Beverley and Bridlington campuses, range from sampling dishes from around the world to learning about the travelling community and trying out belly dancing.As well as enhancing students' learning experience, the week is also for staff, who are learning about the importance of equality and diversity.

Enrichment officer Tracy Underwood, who organised the events, said: "This week has been a lot of fun and students have really been eager to get involved but there is a serious message behind all the activities."Many people think that equality and diversity is all about race and religion but it is much broader than that and can encompass age, gender, sexuality, disability and so on."We want to ensure our students and staff come out of this week with a greater understanding of these issues and, at the same time, enjoy themselves."

Events during the week include:

An introduction to Indian culture, including food, dance and costume

The importance of equality and diversity

An introduction to ethnic minority and travelling community culture and society

Photographs of the belly dancing and gospel choir are available. For more information, call Matthew Croshaw, marketing and communications manager, on 01482 306612 or email matthew.croshaw@eastridingcollege.ac.uk